As you can see I’ve chosen a red for todays writing.
I have just read two articles about racism. Ona about a NASCAR driver from the early days whose experience was quite simply horrific in spite of the fact that he was one of the best drivers. What he faced was for the times was nothing unusual but his determination to never give up and fight until he no longer could was inspiring.
The second is about a young Jamaican who arrived in Britain when he was 6 and has over the years put up with subtle and not so subtle prejudice. Now with all the protests happening his white friend asked him what it was like to be a black man in this society and even though they had been friends for years he was amazed at what his friend faced every day. He asked why he had never said anything and the reply was, that is just the way things are! He then joined him on one of the marches.
I have never experienced racial prejudice. I have no idea what it must be like. I may think I understand it but how can I? I am white. I may sympathise and condemn any form of racial inequality and prejudice But I cannot truly know the anguish it must cause simply because of how you were born!
I am not being completely truthful. I grew up in north London during the Fifties and Sixties And I have some knowledge of prejudice. Not racial but religious. I was born into a Jewish family and although from a very early age I rejected that religion and any other, I can recall be called being called all sorts of names because of it and some violence was done against me. I am not sure those who called me names knew what they were saying or really meant it or cared. They had learnt behaviour from their parents or were trying to fit in with their peer group. Let’s face it children can be cruel without even knowing why and will always pick on those who they think are “different” It was hurtful and upsetting. Not for one moment am I equating it with the prejudice those of ethnic races experience. It did not last and has never been an issue since.
I had a few fights and if I am honest became hostile to the religion (actually I am hostile to all religions, with one or two exceptions) I rejected it and probably became prejudiced towards it myself! My family were well aware of my attitude and to there credit never held it against me or admonished me for it.
Familiarity they say breeds contempt it did with me and it’s a feeling that has never left although I am far more tolerant these days and even have a nostalgic soft spot for those of that persuasion.
It is impossible for those of us who were born with white skin, no matter how much we care , to understand.
I pride myself on having never been prejudice regardless of what you are but it is easy when you don’t have to worry about it or deal with it!
We must continue to fight it and as with every fibre until it is eradicated but let us white people not kid ourselves that we really get it because we don’t!!!!!
Stay well
P.S. No pictures today because Blogger has introduced a new format and loading photos does not appear to function?
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